A new trailer for From Software's Dark Souls 3 surfaces online, revealing the sequel's release date and some new, never-before-seen gameplay footage.

Dark Souls 3 has been hotly anticipated since its development was confirmed at E3 2015, but From Software has deftly avoided divulging too many details on the newest installment in their wildly successful action-RPG. Gamers have been eager to get more information regarding gameplay as well as an exact release date, presumably so they can book a few days off work to play and a few more to recover psychologically from the brutal difficulty. While many expected news to surface at the PSX event this weekend, some exciting details have come a little early.

While the North American Dark Souls 3 release was already confirmed for April, publisher Bandai Namco announced today that the game will release in North America, South America, and Europe simultaneously on April 12. Developer From Software also debuted a new trailer alongside the announcement, which features a montage of Dark Souls 3 gameplay.

[HTML1]

In the trailer, gamers can see zombies, giant spears being hurled towards the player from an unseen force, and a beautiful courtyard that houses one of the more grotesque big bads the series has ever seen. Judging by the appearance of the creature in the courtyard, it's not just the Dark Souls 3 combat system taking inspiration from Bloodborne. Given Bloodborne's 2015 Game Awards nomination in art direction, that's certainly not a bad thing.

While the video does a good job showing off the improved swordplay in Dark Souls 3, fans will have to wait and see what From Software's promise of a greater world scope entails, as the trailer features mostly enclosed or narrow areas. Even in the limited spaces, however, it's clear From Software has designed levels to give players more freedom in their movements. The courtyard scene, for instance, features a ton of dodging and rolling around, but the character is never forced into a corner or pinned to a wall.

In addition to announcing a release date and debuting the new trailer, From Software also confirmed two editions for Dark Souls 3. First up is the Day-One Edition, which comes with a copy of the game, a starter guide, a copy of the soundtrack, and exclusive packaging. But for the real fans, there is the Limited Edition, which throws in a cloth map, art book, and a 10" Red Knight statue for $129.99.

While this is likely all From Software has to say about Dark Souls 3 for PSX 2015, there's also a chance that the developer has even more to exhibit than they've already revealed. Fans who have been following Dark Souls 3 director Hidetaka Miyazaki's comments in interviews know that Dark Souls 3 promises to be the most refined Dark Souls experience yet, and there's likely plenty more to be shown off prior to the game's release.

Are you excited for the newest Dark Souls instalment? Does the gameplay look better or worse? Let us know in the comments.

Dark Souls 3 releases for the PS4, Xbox One, and PC on April 12, 2016 in North America, South America, and Europe.